Last time, we tackled the measurements commonly required of male runway models and some of the other Types of Modeling! Now, let’s check out what measurements you’ll need if you’re considering a career as a female runway model. These aren’t by any means the absolute requirements for high fashion runway models, but these are good numbers to consider helping you better frame your expectations and calculate your chances.

Height:

According to the British AMA (Association of Model Agents), the minimum height for a female model should be 5’8”. The safe range commonly stands at 5’9” to 5’11”. Keep in mind that, as with males, sometimes candidates can still get signed even if they’re an inch shorter or taller than the designated range as long as they show they have the looks and the flair to make it work on the runway.

Weight and Build

Being between 115-130 lbs. would be a good range for female runway models’ weight. Do note that, as we’ve mentioned in the male runway model measurements article above (Model Measurements), weight can look different depending on the individual.

A thin and slender build is generally what’s being required for the runway (If you’re that tall and that light, you’re likely very slender already). While the industry is still perceived as fielding models that are too thin, and runway modeling is still associated with eating disorders and unhealthy habits, many firms are now going with curvy models to keep things balanced and promote better eating habits.

Average Model Measurements

The British AMA lists 34-24-34 as the ideal model measurements for runway models, while other sources provide ranges of 32-34 inchesfor the bust around 26 inches for the waist, and around 35-36 inches for the hips. Again, the particulars will depend on the agency you’re going to audition for as well as the suitability to a particular gig or niche.

Numbers can be fickle, and there are times when the measurements don’t really translate into body proportions as they appear in the real world. Sometimes, these prescribed numbers change from time to time, too. The numbers above just happen to be the current set agencies are going with today.

Beyond the Numbers

You’ve probably heard about the rest of the package—clear skin, good looks, striking facial features, and nice hair, among others. These things can’t be encapsulated by numbers, so you be the judge. Better yet, have your friends or even your agent be the judge.

There you have it—a quick rundown of the measurements you need to have if you’re eyeing a successful career on the runway. Are your measurements within the prescribed numbers? Good for you, and good luck on your tryouts.

Should you find that the runway is simply not for you, there are still other markets you may decide to explore. If you love the job and know you have what it takes, don’t be afraid to try other avenues. If your body doesn’t adhere to the model measurements mentioned above, you can still see if you have the X-factor needed to overcome the physical mismatch. God Bless.

Respectfully,

Jonah Taylor, May God Bless your modeling journey!

p.s. If you fit these numbers and or simply want to give modeling a shot, check out the How To Become A Model Guide and get started on your modeling journey today!

And if you find that you do not meet some of the required measurements but are still wondering, “Do I Have What It Takes To Be A Model?“ check out the many different types of modeling and see which one fits you best!!

You may find that the genre of modeling you like most is not the best fit, but that another fits you just perfect! So Get checking!!!

P.S. Modeling Wisdom is only an informational blog. It is NOT a modeling agency and cannot tell you whether you have what it takes to model or not. Modeling Wisdom CAN, however, provide you with the necessary steps to give modeling a try if you would still like to give modeling a shot! In the end, the only person who can tell you that you don’t have a shot is yourself. Believe in yourself and don’t stop until you have achieved your goal, no matter what they say!!

Hello Divya! You have good height and are of the right age:) plus! There are many fields of modeling outside of just fashion! I would say you should absolutely get involved with a local modeling agency and give modeling a try!!

you def can, my measurements are 35-28-28 and i do a lot of lifestyle and fit work. the person who says you need a 24 inch waist is mistaken. i know some fashion/ runway models who have 25 inch waists. it’s about how youre proportioned and how it sits on your frame

Hi Jonah,
I’m 16, 6’2″ and I weigh 158 lb, I was wondering if there was any point me losing weight and fitting the standards better or does my height stop me? My bust is 34″, waist is 30″ and hips are 38″. Does my height limit the amount of modelling I could do because I’m way taller than everyone else or does it give me an advantage in a way?
Thanks, Olivia x

Hi Kesha:) Thanks for the comment!! Of course not! You may just have to tweak the type of modeling you are interested in. Of course, runway modeling may require a little more height, but there are still many other kinds of modeling!

Hi jonah,
I’m 13 years old I’m 5’7 and my weight is 121lbs my measurements are 32 hips,
34 waist,and my bust is 31. I want to be a model when i grow up but should i start start at 14? many people say i should be a model and photographers says I’m photo genetic so what should i do

Hey Celaste! This is what I would recommend.. being that you are still very young, I would wait a little while longer until you are maybe 17 or so. In the mean time I would start getting some professional pictures and start building your portfolio so that when that time comes, you are ready to start submitting your pictures to local agencies and get your self a modeling agency:) I hope this helps you:)

Hello Ayushi! Thanks for commenting! The best way to increase your chest size is to strength train. I would recommend strength training the chest (flat becnh press, dumbell press, dips, etc.) and using the Sample modeling exercise program.

Hi, i’m 14 years old, 5’7, and my measurments are 37 and a half at the bust, 25 at the waist, and 37 at the hips, i am always asked if i am a model, and i am always told to be one, and i was wondering if there was any way that would help me get started?

Hi Jonah!
I am 19 years old and am 5’10” and I weigh 148 pounds. My chest is 34 inches, my waist 29″, and my hips are 38.5″. I am a college soccer player, but have always dreamed of modeling. Am I too big? If I did modeling what type would be best for me in your opinion?
Thank you in advance!!!
JJ

Hey JJ, You are NOT too big. You can certainly do this! You might try to get in with a local modeling agency and you can specialize in more of their “athletic or sports” modeling. Get some professional pictures taken and start submitting them to local agencies. God Bless!

Hey hey from 14 to 15 I was approached by 2 different agencies to start modeling, unfortunately my parents wanted me to finish college first. Now that I am 22 I fear it maybe too late. I now live in Dallas, Texas and have found a few agencies. My measurements are 34- 26- 35 at 128lbs 5’11. My parents and I thought that this modeling dream would die out overtime, but it’s actually grown more intense! I have so many personalities that come alive in front of people, however many agencies want only photos first. Is there a way to get around this and sorry for so many questions!!! Thanks for your time!

Great question Whitney and thanks for commenting! Truthfully, even if you get signed with an agency first, they are going to require you to get some photos right after, so putting it off doesn’t do you any favors as it only makes you look less experienced anyhow. You see, this is how clients book models for their jobs, off of your pictures. So you if have few or no photos, you will not be considered for many jobs at all.

There is nothing to be afraid of with getting these photos. Think of it much like your college education, you paid for it all first, so that you will make much much more in the end. The photos that you need will help you land modeling jobs that will hopefully pay you back. Also, consider it an investment and just know, the better the photos you get, the more likely you will get modeling jobs! So save up and get those photos and submit them to the agencies until they say YES! We Want You!

Update!
Thank you for your advice! I signed with an agency in Dallas last year. I’ve been working steadily and I’m loving it! My agency is now starting to submit me to agencies in LA, NYC and Chicago! Hopefully I get more representation. Thank you so much for your advice and words of encouragement last year!

Hey Jonah 🙂
I am 17, 5’8 , 130 lbs, and my measures are 31-25-35, I would love to be a model but the problem is that I am not living in a place where you can become a model, I live in a country where there is no modeling agencies, I will be traveling to the UK to continue my studies but that would be after 5-6 years from now, can I start modeling in such a late age?
Thank you 🙂

Hey there Nora, Of course you can!! You see, many famous models do in fact get their start while they are young, but this does not mean that all models are young. Designers need models of all shapes and sizes in order to promote their clothes. So this means you will still be able to pursue your dreams of modeling even as you are traveling. Great question and I hope this helps you!!!

Of course there is a chance for you Carly!!! The very first steps I would recommend you take would be to contact some local modeling agencies and see what they require from their models. Then get some professional photographs taken so you can submit these to your local agencies! Let us know if you need anything else!

I am 27 years old, but look 21 (or so I am told). I am 5’8 and my measurements are 34 bust – 25 waist – 36 hips. I have always heard that a models career is finished at around 25. However, my thought process is: if I still protray a very youthful look and have the right measurements I can still appeal to top agencies. But I do feel that when they find out my age this will hold me back. I was wondering what your thoughts were on this subject.

Hey Jonah I am 15 years old, and I am already signed with an agency, but I have noticed since I first started I added an inch onto my waist. my measurements are 34″, 26″, and 36″ is this bad? or is it ok and just work on getting my waist back to where it was? I am also 5’9″ and my weight is 120. Are these ok? or should I work on it all, and get back down?? PLEASE HELP!!!!

Hello Taylor Anne! Thanks for commenting:) My question to you would be, are you getting modeling jobs in your current state?? I would follow that up with if not, what does your agency think you should do to get more modeling work? You see, the agency knows the types of clients that would suit you best and what you could be doing to land more modeling jobs. So contact them and find out what they think you could improve to land more modeling gigs!

Hey! I am curious if I should try and make my measurements smaller. I am 16 and 5’9″ and 123lbs. My measurements are 32-25-36. I really want to go far in modeling but I heard that I should try and lower my hip size to 34 instead of 36 in order to go to new York.

Hey Kiersten! You have some great measurements to start out with and getting it to 34 probably couldn’t hurt. Check with some local modeling agencies in your areas and see if this would make a difference for you. If so, do it. If not, then don’t even worry about it:)

Hi, I’m 15 years old and extremely interested in high fashion runway modeling. I’m 5’8 and still growing, 29 waist,35 hips and my bust is 37… Could that prevent me from being able to go far? I know my waist is a bit large but that’s easier to fix than my breasts..which I was wondering are too large? If it’s not. Would you be able to tell me a tip on starting modeling? Thank you so much and I’m sorry this is so long!xx

Hey Isabela!! Good to hear from you:) It all depends on the market you find yourself in, some agencies require thinner, smaller models while some actually prefer more realistic models and sizes. You can apply to some agencies and see what they have to say as far as measurements go!!

If you are feeling too large for some modeling jobs, a solid exercise program can take care of all of that, because it sounds like you have everything else to get going;) Here is a special article that may help you get started as a model. God bless and enjoy Isabela!

Hi! I’m 5’9.5″ weighing 130 prior to my diet. I have a bust of 32, waist of 25, and hip of 36, these measurements may have been taken incorrectly since I have no lie what I’m doing! But I have been an athlete most of my life and had an athletic build but since sticking to long distance running my bulky muscles have dwindled away. I still think I could never be a model but my parents are pushing me to try it. Is this experience of attempting to become a model going to end up embarrassing me? Thanks so much, F

Hi Felicia! The bottom line is, do you actually want to do it? Do you think it would be fun to walk in designer clothes in front of numerous people and or display clothing fore magazines and catalogs? IF yes, then definitely give it a try. Your measurements look well to me and you certainly have the height!

Hi, I’m 22 years old and I kinda feel like I might be too old to get involved in runway modeling now, but I still want to know if my stats are good enough:
I’m 5’11”, 144 lbs, measurements 34.4-24.4-35.1

Hey Ana! You are not too old to get started. True, many models start at a young age but that does not mean it is over for you:) Your measurements all look good to me! Check out some local modeling agencies and see what they have to say.

I’m actually planing on sending my Polaroids to a modeling agency, because my friend, who is a model, thinks I have a shot in getting a contract.
Losing a bit more weight and 1” of my hips and off I go. Well, hopefully. 🙂

It’s always hard to say Tito but I would say that if it is a strong enough desire for you, then yes you can be a model. You can change the hips if necessary. So pray hard, maintain faith and give it all you got!

Hi! I am 16 years old and I’m 5’9.5 with 36-26-37 measurements. I have recently put on weight, mainly in my hips and bust, but that does not stop me from wanting to model. I’m not very interested in runway, but is there something I should go for? Should I attempt to get back my old measurements of 34-25-36?

Hey Victoria! Great to hear from you:) I do believe that your old measurements will make things easier for you but try submitting some pics to local modeling agencies and see what they say. Many agencies are different and you never know until you try. So submit some pics, get them first if you do not have any, and see what they say! God bless Victoria!!

Hi. I really love your website and it feels like the only one which truly tells you what you need to be a model. I’m 16 and 34-25-35. But I’m 5’7″ and 117 lbs. I would love to try my hand at modeling but with my height I’m not sure if I’d make it to where I’d want to go. What do you advise? (Thanks in advance for your time)

Thank you for your kind words Shreelekha! Your measurements are close and you should certainly give modeling a try if you truly desire to follow this path. There are many different types of modeling so you can find the one that best suits you and your desires. Figure out which one you want to be and then go for it! If you have faith, pray hard, and truly desire the outcome, then nothing can stop you;)

Hello Sarah! other than exercise it can be hard to modify this part of the body. Perhaps you already do, but give exercising a try and see if that helps. Actually, give modeling a shot regardless and don’t let anything stop you!! God bless Sarah!

I’m 16 years old and 5ft 11”! I was asked if I was interested in modelling when my brother was scouted last year. Since then I have been asked again. However, my measurements are around 40-24-34. I desperately want to be a runway model, but is my bust too big? I’m too worried to reply back incase they tell me my bust is too big, it would break me if they said I couldn’t runway model because of my huge bust size…

Dear Emily, it would be even worse to miss a dream because you were afraid to even pursue them. Do not worry about what they will say. At this point, the answer is already “no” because you haven’t even asked. Get moving and see what they say. if they say “no”, then find another agency and ask them! Keep doingthis until you get a “yes!”

Hi I’m Halle, I’m 15 and 5″8. I would love to start modeling but my bust is 36, waist 31, and hips 38. I weight 136, should I loose weight before giving it a shot? Also im not a super curvy girl, would that be an issue?

Hey there Halle, I would say give it a try at your current measurements and if you get the impression, you can always ask the agencies for advice, then you can modify what you feel you need to make your dreams of modeling come true! Many blessings to you and your family!

Hi, I’m 5’9 34-27-34 and slim with a slightly muscular build. I’m going into an agency in a couple of weeks but scared that my waist isn’t small enough. Should I try and shed a couple of inches? Thanks.

Go and see what they say. If that is the consensus, then you know what you have to do:) You can also check with a couple other agencies as well to see if they have any different standards. Many blessings and best of luck to you Jade!

Hi! Okay so I’m 5’7 which I know is on the shorter side. For models, but (I’m really not trying to me cocky or anything ) but I get asked sometimes
Why I haven’t modelled and so on. My measurements are 37-27-35.5 so I’m a but in the fuller side oh and I’m 15, I don’t know if I could still be a model or not?

Hey Lenna! You certainly can, it is just a matter of convincing the right people. Give modeling your best shot and don’t stop until you have achieved what you set out to do! Check out the quick link in the text to get started modeling! God bless you Lenna:)

I’m 19 years old and 5 ft 9. My measurements are approximately 34-30-35.5. I have red hair, a weird nose (in my opinion) and blue-green eyes. I’m always told I look very pretty and I’ve been often told I should be a model (by people who don’t know a thing about the modelling industry, though). Should I give modeling a try, considering it’s something I’ve always wanted to do? Do you think I have any chances of signing up with an agency?

Hi my age is 18 and height 5’9″ and bust-waist-hips measurements are 32-25-34,weight 54/55 kg(confused about the correct one) and i am fairly tanned.So i m wondering if i have any chance,actually i never consider it as a carried for me before some months ago.

Hey Deepak! You are right, it takes a good body to be a model. Now not all models will take the same route to fitness, but here is a SAMPLE WORKOUT GUIDE you can follow to get in shape! God bless you Deepak!!

Hello! I’m Giselle and I’ve just turned 18. I’m 5ft 10 inch and my measurements are 33-24-37. I would like to be a model but I think that my hips are too wide. Also, I have some little stretchmarks in my butt and and that’s what worries me the most. Do you think I should try?

Hi! I’m JJ and I’m 12 years old. I’m 6′. I want to be a runway model, but is 6′ too tall for a female model? I’m the tallest girl in my grade and everyone thinks that I should be a basketball player, although I am also interested in modeling. Let me know if my height is too tall for modeling!

Hello! So im 13 and im 5’3 my chest is 31 my hips are 25 and my bust is 30 i weigh 120 , modeling has always been my goal ever since i was 4 , many photographers tell me i am very photo genic and everyone is always telling me that i look so much like a model , that i have the body, I’ve done fashion shows and photoshoots and i have another runway coming up , do you think im too short to be an actual vs angel?

Hi! I’m 5’7 and 14 years old. I get told by random strangers that I should model. I weigh 117 pounds and my measurements are 34-25-36. I would really love to model! My inseam is 32 inches, are my legs too short for modeling?

Hi! I’m 5’8 with measurements of 35-27-38 but at 145lbs. I’ve been out of the gym for a while but could lose probably 10 lbs in a month by working out and putting aside the christmas cookies. I’ve been told I should be a model before by some people. I do have broad square shoulders which may or may not be okay. Do you think modeling would be a possibility for me?

Of course it can be a possibility for you Izzy. Don’t let anyone tell you that it is not. If you pray hard, and believe in yourself, you can do this! Now go out there and make a model of yourself! God bless!

I’ve always admired models and their confidence. Modeling seems like so much fun even though it requires hard work! I would love to give it a try but I’m not sure if I have what it takes-measurement wise. I’m 15 at 5’6″ with 32-28-37 and weigh 120 lbs. What do you think?

I am 14 years old and about 5’7″ to 5’7.5″. My bust is 34, my waist is 26, and my hips are 36. I know I may be a little young for modeling right now, but if I was to try to model anytime in the next few years, do you think my measurements are worth trying? I was thinking more print, magazine modeling. Is my waist too big for that? Especially since it could even get slightly bigger as I get older. Thank you for the article!

Hi! I’m Coco and I’m 17 at 5’9. I weight 120 lbs and I’m 31-23-35. I want to loose a few pounds mostly because of my hips that are a little too big, but most importantly because of my legs, I feel they are too big (19 inches each thigh!) but also I’m afraid they are naturally too big, my calves are 13 inches each, I don’t know, because all models seem to have naturally tiny legs, and I don’t. Also, I see that my hips are a little too big but again, I feel that’s my body naturally, since I have a thigh gap, meaning that my hips are naturally wide, I don’t know, what do you think? Am I too big to ever be a model? Thank you!!

Hi my hight is 5,7 and my measurements are 32(bust) 29(waist) and 35(hips) and I weigh 155 but I’m solid like I get more muscle. Would I be a good model I’ve been told in the past that I would but I’m not sure.

Hello, Jonah! I am almost 15, 167 cm, and my measurements are 30-25-34. I weigh about 113 pounds. I run a lot too, so my legs are a bit thick for my frame. My calves are 13.5 inches, and my thighs are 19 inches. Should I try modelling? If so, what kind?

Hi I’m 25.I live in iran.my hight is 174 cm and my weight is 48 kg. I’m skinny. Can I get to the modeling from Iran to Americas model schools?! I love modeling and every body say you should be a model. Thanks for your help

Hi, I’m 14 years old and I think I might want to be a model. My height is 5’8 , and my weight is 127. My hips are 35″, my waist is 25″, and my bust is 32″. Do you think I could be a model and if so, should I wait until I’m older?

Hi! I am 14 years old and I am really hoping to be a high fashion model. I am 5’6, and I am 127 lbs. My hips are 32″, my waist is 26″ and my bust is “32. I am pretty sure I meet all the standards (besides I am not 5’8-6′, and I am not 16). The thing that I am worried about most is my semi-muscular body. I am not ripped at all, but you can notice my leg muscles. All I know is that runway models are supposed to be extremely skinny, almost to the point where it is unhealthy. I really just want to be a model though. Do you think that there is a possibility that I could be in high fashion? Please let me know. thanks!

Hi,
I am 14 years old, and just wondering if I have the ideal model body. I am 5’9 119.5 lbs, 32″ bust, 34.6″ Hips, and 26″ Waist. I’d like to start modeling but i have the ocasional acne breakout mostly from stress, and i don’t have the best skin (hair…). I also have few scars, but no one notices it until i point the out to my friends and etc.
I would love to write my entire life here, but… this only is the “comment” section. And I almost forgot, my family members tell me i should model because they think I am pretty, but the I look at myself in pictures and think “What are they talking aabout”. Ok, I’ll just quit now bef…….
-SJ

I’m 5’8 and a half, 15 years old, my bust is 32, waist is 29, and my hips are 34. I weigh 150 pounds but, I am a serious athlete and am built more muscular than skinny. Could I make it on the runway? I’ve always been interested and have always worked hard to lose weight to be one but my body just gains it as muscule.

Hi, I’m 15 years old, I’ve been interested in modeling for a while now, and there are many agencies near me. I got all the other measurements except height, I am 5’4″ and I’m not supposed to grow much more, what types on modeling would I be able to do? What can I look into?

You can model bbut the problem is your height u might not be able to do runway in certain states. u have the perfect measurements but u just might get turned down bc if your height but ur 14 u might grow another inch so if your 5’7 that would be perfect

Hi,
I am 17 and am 6 feet. My measurements are 34, 26,37. I am told that if I want to do runway modeling I will need to get my hip measurement down to a 34 or 35. I am working with a nutritionist but am afraid I
Will never get there. What is your opinion ?

gd evening ,My name is Priya Choubey ,I m 20yrs. old ,my height is 5’8 inch & weight 67.3kg.I want to be Miss India ,bt have no idea wat I Sld wear in d audition & wat sld be d exact weight according to my height .& wat things I sld keep in mind during audition .& I m from Jharkhand & from a very small town ,so I really don’t have more idea in dis stream bt have big dreams .plzz give me some beneficial tips for my bright future, I will be highly oblize for ur cooperation .thanks you

Hi I’m 15 years old turning 16 in Aug, I’m 5.7 1/2 and my measurements are; bust 30 waist 24.5 hips 32. Do you think I could model for high fashion? I think I will grow taller and also my thigs are 21 inches are they too big that’s my main priority? I’m also 49.5 kg your advice would be very much appreciated!

I’m 5’9 my waist is 26 my hips are 37 and my bust is 33. I’m only 12 almost 13 wanting to model I keep looking for places but they dont interview they just take out there iphone take a mugshot of u and tell u if your in or not .. I keep getting turned down is it bc of my measurments or my age??

Hello, i am 19 years Old and 5.11, also thin and very petite, and most of people i meet tell me that I should be a model.i’d tried to one modeling agency of NYC, and they selected me but I had to pay a lot. Now,where Can i find a coach so i Can start it online while being directed?
Thanks,

Hi! I’m 14 years old and I really want to be a runway model. I’m 5’9 and my measurements are 34-25-34. It’s my dream to walk in the VS fashion show someday and my friends said I should model too. I’ve been told not worry about my 25 inch waist because Alessandra Ambrosio’s waist is 25 inches, but I feel like my waist should be 24 inches to start applying to agencies. What do you guys think?

Hi, my name is Ram,i’m 5’11 and my age is 23.I have an slim muscular body. Also i’m from Mumbai.I wan’t to be a model. Can anyone help me how can I step into this industry. If anyone can throw some opportunity at me, kindly let me know or contact me at +91 8208925241 & mail id: joinme0222@gmail.com

Hi I’m Meghan. My age is 15, I have more of a thin built athletic body. I’m a swimmer, I’m not sure if I could be a runway model (I want to be) I’m 5’6.5. My measurements are 32B chest, 26 waist, and 34 hips. I’m very thin toward the top half of my body, my arms are very long and slender, my torso and legs are very long. The bottom half of my body is very toned and then my upper thighs are slimming down considerably towards the sides and back. I have very high cheekbones and a sharp jawline and straight small nose, they make me look guant which I don’t like. People always ask me if I’m a model, which I don’t know why because I’m not super tall. Would I have what it takes to be a runway model?

Hi I’m Meghan. My age is 25, I have more of a thin built athletic body. I’m a swimmer, I’m not sure if I could be a runway model (I want to be) I’m 5’6.5. My measurements are 34B chest, 26 waist, and 34 hips. I’m very thin toward the top half of my body, my arms are very long and slender, my torso and legs are very long. The bottom half of my body is very toned and then my upper thighs are slimming down considerably towards the sides and back. I have very high cheekbones and a sharp jawline and straight small nose, they make me look gaunt which I don’t like. People always ask me if I’m a model, which I don’t know why because I’m not super tall. Would I have what it takes to be a runway model?

Hi, I know this is an old one but. I’m 13, 5 ft 7.5 and my measurements are 34 bust 29 waist and 34 hips, I’m not worried about the height but I hear the modeling industry is very strict and I have no way of shedding the inches on my waist cause there is not fat there. I’m 120 lbs and I would love to runway model, will my dreams be dashed? Do you know of any agencies that might take me?

[…] to a gym, and pronto. Body shape is very important when wearing design clothes. Think about the models that wear them on the runway and in adverts. They tend to be very slim, and also very toned. If you want to wear […]